Why I’m Running
by Lisa Jeanne Graf
This spring I decided to run for the Suffolk 8th district, to ensure that an important Human Rights Bill will be championed and fought for in the next legislative session. This bill is H.180, and if passed would ensure that disabled people in MA have the same protections against physical harm as abled people.
As a self identified autistic woman, disability rights are an area that I am passionate about. Other strong values include supporting education equity, the arts, and justice in all its forms.
What I offer to this work is education and experience in both policy and the arts. Through this unique background, I bring an approach that is both creative and constructive.
Also, my long history serving on boards, cooperatives and activist groups has given me skills in diplomacy, and collaboration. In addition, when needed I have strong negotiation skills as well as comfort in being the lone voice speaking up on a critical issue.
As a statewide policy platform is developed, I see the value of a human rights framework. For example, education should be a human right — access to employment, health care, housing and a good quality of life should all be human rights too. Together we can begin a hopeful adventure, to ensure that everyone in MA is treated with care and respect!
Photo: Lisa Jeanne Graf speaking at the April 16th Ward 4 meeting.
Photo by Jonathan Cohn.
